Top 11 Digital Content Producer Certifications

Certifications are important for a digital content producer in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has a certain level of skill and knowledge to be successful in their chosen field. By having certifications, employers can see that the individual has taken the time to learn and hone their skills in order to produce high-quality content. In addition, many employers are looking for someone with certifications as it shows dedication and commitment to their field, which is especially important when hiring for digital content production positions. Certifications also provide evidence of experience and expertise, which can help potential employers make an informed decision when choosing a candidate.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Digital Content Producers and explains how they can help to advance a digital content producer's career.

What are Digital Content Producer Certifications?

Digital content producer certification is a program designed to help professionals develop the skills necessary to create and distribute digital content for business purposes. It provides an understanding of how to plan, develop, and produce multimedia products such as videos, webpages, podcasts, blogs, and other digital media. The certification also covers topics like SEO optimization, analytics management, social media strategy development and implementation, and best practices for creating content that resonates with target audiences.

By obtaining digital content producer certification, professionals can become more desirable in the job market by demonstrating their knowledge of current trends in the digital marketing space. Companies are increasingly looking for personnel who understand the technical aspects of producing digital content as well as the creative side of developing compelling stories that engage audiences. Digital content producer certification can help professionals stand out from their peers by showing employers they have a comprehensive knowledge of this field. Additionally, it can help individuals build their own personal brand by showing they are knowledgeable about digital marketing trends and strategies.

Pro Tip: When looking for digital content producer certification, make sure to research the institution or organization offering it to ensure that their program is legitimate and recognized in the industry. Additionally, look for certifications that focus on specific areas of expertise such as video production, audio production, or web design so that you can build a portfolio of specialized skills.

Related: What does a Digital Content Producer do?

Top 11 Digital Content Producer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Digital Content Producers today.

1. Certified Digital Content Producer (CDCP)

Certified Digital Content Producer (CDCP) is a certification program designed to help content producers, marketers, and strategists create and manage digital media. The CDCP certification provides an understanding of the fundamentals of digital marketing, including SEO, social media, content creation, analytics, and more.

The CDCP certification requires passing an online exam that tests your knowledge of digital marketing principles. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. You must score at least 70% in order to pass the exam.

To get the CDCP certification you must first register for the exam through the Digital Marketing Institute's website. Registration costs $295 USD and includes access to study materials and practice exams. Once you have registered for the exam you will be able to schedule a time to take it at one of their testing centers or online with a proctor.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your Certified Digital Content Producer (CDCP) certificate from the Digital Marketing Institute which is valid for three years before needing renewal.

2. Certified Digital Media Producer (CDMP)

Certified Digital Media Producer (CDMP) is a certification program offered by the Digital Media Producers Association (DMPA). The CDMP certification is designed to recognize professionals who have a comprehensive understanding of digital media production, including the technical and creative aspects of the field.

The CDMP certification requires applicants to pass an exam that tests their knowledge in areas such as video production, audio production, editing, motion graphics, web design and development, and more. Applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in project management and communication skills. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To become certified as a CDMP, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have at least two years of experience in digital media production or related fields. They must also pay a one-time fee of $250 USD for the application process. Once approved, applicants will receive their official CDMP certificate.

The CDMP certification is valid for three years from the date it was issued. After this period has expired, applicants must reapply for recertification by taking the same exam again or by submitting proof of continuing education credits in digital media production or related topics.

3. Adobe Certified Expert in Digital Content Production (ACE-DCP)

Adobe Certified Expert in Digital Content Production (ACE-DCP) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated their expertise in the production of digital content using Adobe Creative Cloud and Adobe Creative Suite software. This certification is available to individuals who demonstrate mastery of the tools, techniques, and processes used to create digital content.

To become an ACE-DCP, you must pass two exams: one on Adobe Creative Cloud applications and another on Adobe Creative Suite applications. The exams are administered by Pearson VUE, an independent testing service. You can take the exams at any Pearson VUE testing center or online.

The cost of taking the exams varies depending on which exam you are taking and where you are taking it. Generally speaking, each exam costs between $100 and $200 USD.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for the ACE-DCP certification exams. During this time, you should review all relevant material related to the software you will be tested on and practice using it as much as possible. Additionally, some people find it helpful to take practice tests or enroll in a study course offered by a third-party provider.

Once you have passed both exams, your results will be sent directly to Adobe for verification. Once your results have been verified, you will receive your official ACE-DCP certificate from Adobe within 8 weeks of passing both exams.

4. Certified Professional in Digital Content Production (CPDCP)

Certified Professional in Digital Content Production (CPDCP) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the creation and production of digital content. The certification program is developed by the International Association of Digital Content Professionals (IADCP).

The CPDCP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in digital content production through a combination of coursework, exams, and practical experience. To become certified, applicants must complete an approved course or program that covers topics such as content strategy, design principles, writing for the web, video production, audio production, photography, and more. Additionally, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that tests their knowledge of digital content production concepts and practices.

It typically takes four to six months to complete the CPDCP certification process. However, this timeline can vary depending on each individual's pace of learning and availability for completing the required coursework and exams.

To get started on your CPDCP certification journey, you will need to find an approved provider that offers courses or programs related to digital content production. You can search online for providers in your area or contact IADCP directly for more information about approved providers. Once you have found an approved provider that offers courses or programs relevant to your interests, you can register for classes and begin studying for the comprehensive exam.

The cost of obtaining the CPDCP certification varies depending on which provider you choose and what type of course or program they offer. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000-$2,000 USD to become certified through IADCP's approved providers.

5. Apple Certified Pro in Digital Content Production (ACPDCP)

Apple Certified Pro in Digital Content Production (ACPDCP) is an Apple certification program for professionals who create, edit, and manage digital content. This certification is designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of those who produce digital content with Apple products such as Final Cut Pro X, Motion 5, Compressor 4, Logic Pro X, and MainStage 3.

The ACPDCP certification requires applicants to pass a two-hour exam that tests their knowledge of the tools used in digital content production. The exam covers topics such as video editing, audio mixing, color grading, motion graphics design, and encoding/delivering media files.

It takes approximately four to six weeks to complete the certification process after registering with Apple. Applicants must pay a fee of $299 USD to take the exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive an official Apple Certified Pro in Digital Content Production certificate from Apple.

6. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert in Digital Content Production (MCSE-DCP)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert in Digital Content Production (MCSE-DCP) is a certification that validates an individual’s ability to design, develop, and deploy digital content production solutions using Microsoft technologies. The MCSE-DCP certification requires individuals to demonstrate their knowledge of the latest digital content production technologies, including Windows Server 2016, Windows 10, SharePoint Server 2016, Exchange Server 2016, System Center Configuration Manager 2016, and other related Microsoft products.

To obtain the MCSE-DCP certification an individual must pass three exams: Exam 70-345 Designing and Deploying Microsoft Exchange Server 2016; Exam 70-346 Managing Office 365 Identities and Requirements; and Exam 70-347 Enabling Office 365 Services. All three exams can be taken at a Pearson Vue testing center or online through the Microsoft Learning Portal.

The cost of each exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $165-$200 USD per exam. In total it will cost around $495-$600 USD to take all three exams required for the MCSE-DCP certification. It typically takes around 4 weeks to complete all three exams and receive your certification once you have passed them all.

7. CompTIA A+ Certification for Digital Content Production

CompTIA A+ Certification for Digital Content Production is a certification program designed to help professionals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in digital content production. It is an industry-recognized credential that validates the ability to create, manage, and deliver digital content across multiple platforms.

The CompTIA A+ Certification for Digital Content Production consists of two exams: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). The exams cover topics such as digital media production, project management, web development, mobile app development, audio/video editing, and more. The exams must be passed in order to obtain the certification.

The CompTIA A+ Certification for Digital Content Production typically takes about six months to complete. This includes studying for the exams, taking practice tests, attending classes or workshops if necessary, and registering for the actual exam.

To get the CompTIA A+ Certification for Digital Content Production you must first register with CompTIA. After registering you will need to purchase an exam voucher which can be done online or through a local test center. Once you have purchased your voucher you will need to schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center near you.

The cost of the CompTIA A+ Certification for Digital Content Production varies depending on where you are taking the exam and what type of voucher you purchase. Generally speaking it costs around $300 USD per exam plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam at a Pearson VUE testing center.

8. Google Analytics Academy Certification for Digital Content Production

Google Analytics Academy Certification for Digital Content Production is an online certification program designed to help content creators and digital marketers understand how to use Google Analytics to measure, optimize, and report on the success of their digital content. The certification covers topics such as setting up Google Analytics, creating goals and custom reports, understanding user behavior, interpreting data, and more.

The certification takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete. It consists of six modules: Introduction to Digital Analytics; Principles of Digital Measurement; Setting Up Your Google Analytics Account; Collecting Data with Google Tag Manager; Analyzing & Interpreting Data; and Reporting & Optimizing Your Content.

To get the certification, you must complete all six modules and pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher. You can take the exam multiple times if needed.

The cost for the Google Analytics Academy Certification for Digital Content Production is free.

9. Social Media Marketing Professional Certification for Digital Content Production

Social Media Marketing Professional Certification for Digital Content Production is a certification program offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA). This certification is designed to help professionals gain the knowledge and skills needed to create and manage digital content for social media marketing campaigns. The program is intended to provide a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively utilize social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn, for marketing purposes.

The program consists of six modules that cover topics such as content strategy development, content creation and optimization, influencer marketing strategies, analytics and reporting techniques, and more. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the entire course.

In order to earn the Social Media Marketing Professional Certification for Digital Content Production certification from AMA, you must pass an online exam with a minimum score of 70%. The exam fee is $299 USD. After passing the exam you will be awarded your certificate which is valid for two years.

To prepare for the exam you can take advantage of AMA’s online study materials including practice exams and webinars. You can also attend live classes or workshops offered by AMA or its partners throughout the year.

10. Video Editing and Motion Graphics Certification for Digital Content Production

Video Editing and Motion Graphics Certification for Digital Content Production is a certification program which provides students with the skills necessary to produce high-quality digital content. The program covers a range of topics related to video editing, motion graphics, and digital content production. It includes instruction on how to use software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, and Photoshop.

The program typically takes about six months to complete. During this time, students learn how to edit video footage and create motion graphics using industry-standard software tools. They also learn how to design and develop effective digital content that can be used in various media platforms. Additionally, they gain an understanding of the principles of storytelling, audio production techniques, and color correction techniques.

To get the Video Editing and Motion Graphics Certification for Digital Content Production, you must first complete the prerequisite courses in video editing or motion graphics offered at your local college or university. Once you have completed these courses, you will need to apply for the certification program through an accredited institution or organization that offers it.

The cost of the Video Editing and Motion Graphics Certification for Digital Content Production varies depending on where you take the course and what type of institution or organization you are applying through. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$3000 USD depending on the institution or organization offering it.

11. Search Engine Optimization Professional Certification for Digital Content Production

Search Engine Optimization Professional Certification for Digital Content Production is a certification program offered by the Search Engine Academy. It is designed to help digital content producers learn the best practices for optimizing their content for search engines. The program consists of four courses that cover topics such as keyword research, on-page optimization, link building, and analytics. It takes approximately 20 hours to complete the program and receive certification.

To obtain the certification, individuals must first register with the Search Engine Academy and then purchase the course package which includes access to all four courses. The cost of the course package varies depending on whether you choose to pay in full or make monthly payments. Once registered, individuals can begin taking the courses at their own pace and complete them within one year of registration. Upon completion of all four courses, individuals will be able to take an online exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the Search Engine Optimization Professional Certification for Digital Content Production depends on how you choose to pay for it. If you choose to pay in full, it will cost $1,495 USD. If you decide to make monthly payments, it will cost $179 USD per month for nine months plus a one-time setup fee of $99 USD.

Do You Really Need a Digital Content Producer Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a digital content producer certificate to pursue a career in the field of digital content production. However, having one can certainly be beneficial. A digital content producer certificate provides formal recognition of your skills and knowledge in this area, which can be an advantage when looking for employment. Additionally, it may give you access to specialized training and networking opportunities that are not available without the certificate.

Having a digital content producer certificate can also increase your potential for advancement within the field. Employers will recognize that you have taken the time and effort to become certified in this area, and may be more willing to consider you for higher-level positions. This could lead to more responsibility and higher salaries over time.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a digital content producer certificate depends on your individual circumstances. If you are confident in your ability to produce high-quality digital content without any special certification, then it may not be necessary for you. However, if you feel like having a certificate could help further your career goals, then it might be worth considering investing in one.

Related: Digital Content Producer Resume Examples

FAQs About Digital Content Producer Certifications

1. What is a Digital Content Producer Certification?

Answer: A Digital Content Producer Certification is an industry-recognized certification that validates a professional’s skills and knowledge in creating digital content assets including video, audio, images, and text.

2. What are the benefits of getting certified as a Digital Content Producer?

Answer: Benefits of getting certified as a Digital Content Producer include increasing your marketability, gaining confidence in your abilities, understanding industry best practices, staying up to date on new trends, and networking with other professionals.

3. What types of certifications are available for Digital Content Producers?

Answer: There are several different types of certifications available for Digital Content Producers such as Adobe Certified Associate (ACA), Apple Certified Pro (ACP), Google Certified Professional (GCP), Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS), or IC3 Global Standard 4 (GS4).

4. How long does it take to get certified as a Digital Content Producer?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to complete the certification process varies depending on the type of certification you obtain and how much effort you put into studying for the exams. Generally speaking it can range from 1-6 months depending on the level and complexity of the certification exam.

5. Are there any prerequisites to becoming a certified Digital Content Producer?

Answer: Depending on the type of certification you are pursuing there may be some prerequisites required such as having prior experience working with certain software programs or demonstrating a certain level of expertise in specific areas related to digital content production.